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Genesis 32:1 - Lavan's deceptive farewell blessing?

Genesis 32:1 - בראשית 32:1

Hebrew Text

וַיַּשְׁכֵּם לָבָן בַּבֹּקֶר וַיְנַשֵּׁק לְבָנָיו וְלִבְנוֹתָיו וַיְבָרֶךְ אֶתְהֶם וַיֵּלֶךְ וַיָּשָׁב לָבָן לִמְקֹמוֹ׃

English Translation

And early in the morning Lavan rose up, and kissed his sons and his daughters, and blessed them: and Lavan departed, and returned to his place.

Transliteration

Vayashkem lavan baboker vayenashek l'vanav v'livnotav vayvarekh ethem vayeilekh vayashav lavan limkomo.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיַּשְׁכֵּ֨ם לָבָ֜ן בַּבֹּ֗קֶר וַיְנַשֵּׁ֧ק לְבָנָ֛יו וְלִבְנוֹתָ֖יו וַיְבָ֣רֶךְ אֶתְהֶ֑ם וַיֵּ֛לֶךְ וַיָּ֥שׇׁב לָבָ֖ן לִמְקֹמֽוֹ׃
וַיַּשְׁכֵּ֨ם לָבָ֜ן בַּבֹּ֗קֶר וַיְנַשֵּׁ֧ק לְבָנָ֛יו וְלִבְנוֹתָ֖יו וַיְבָ֣רֶךְ אֶתְהֶ֑ם וַיֵּ֛לֶךְ וַיָּ֥שׇׁב לָבָ֖ן לִמְקֹמֽוֹ׃

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Parasha Commentary

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bereishit 32:1) notes that the phrase "וַיְנַשֵּׁק לְבָנָיו וְלִבְנוֹתָיו" ("and kissed his sons and his daughters") refers to Lavan's grandchildren, not his immediate children. This is because Yaakov's children were Lavan's grandchildren, and the term "banav" can sometimes include grandchildren in biblical usage. Rashi further explains that Lavan's blessing was sincere at that moment, despite his earlier deceitful behavior, showing that even wicked individuals can have moments of genuine emotion.

Ibn Ezra's Insight

Ibn Ezra emphasizes the phrase "וַיַּשְׁכֵּם בַּבֹּקֶר" ("and early in the morning he rose"), suggesting that Lavan acted promptly to part ways with Yaakov, possibly to avoid further confrontation or to return to his own affairs without delay. This aligns with Lavan's character as someone who was self-interested and eager to conclude matters on his own terms.

Midrashic Interpretation

The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 74:16) delves into the nature of Lavan's blessing. It suggests that Lavan's blessing was not merely a superficial gesture but carried weight because he was a powerful figure in his region. The Midrash contrasts Lavan's blessing with his earlier actions, highlighting the complexity of his character—capable of both deceit and genuine familial affection.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 2:3) might interpret this verse as an example of how even those with flawed character traits can exhibit positive behavior in certain contexts. Lavan's kiss and blessing demonstrate that no individual is entirely devoid of good, and even a contentious figure like Lavan could express love for his family.

Chizkuni's Commentary

Chizkuni observes that the phrase "וַיָּשָׁב לָבָן לִמְקֹמוֹ" ("and Lavan returned to his place") signifies the end of his direct involvement in Yaakov's life. This return marks a turning point, as Yaakov is now free from Lavan's influence and can continue his journey toward fulfilling the divine covenant.

Key Themes

  • Family Dynamics: The verse highlights the tension between Lavan's familial ties and his contentious relationship with Yaakov.
  • Momentary Sincerity: Even a figure like Lavan, known for deceit, can exhibit genuine emotion and blessing.
  • Divine Providence: Lavan's departure signifies Yaakov's liberation and the unfolding of Hashem's plan for the Jewish people.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Lavan kiss and bless his children before leaving?
A: According to Rashi, even though Lavan had conflicts with Yaakov, he still showed affection to his children and grandchildren before departing. This teaches that family bonds remain important even after disagreements.
Q: What is the significance of Lavan returning to his place?
A: The Midrash explains that Lavan returned to his idolatrous ways (his 'place' spiritually), showing that despite witnessing miracles through Yaakov, he ultimately didn't change his ways. This teaches the power of habit and the difficulty of true repentance.
Q: Why does the Torah mention that this happened 'early in the morning'?
A: Rashi notes that Lavan rose early because he wanted to leave discreetly without drawing attention. The Talmud (Berachot 5b) teaches that important matters should be dealt with early in the day, showing Lavan's determination in this separation.
Q: What can we learn from Lavan's blessing before departing?
A: The Rambam teaches that even when relationships are strained, we should part with blessings. Though Lavan had issues with Yaakov, he still offered blessings, showing the Jewish value of maintaining basic respect and wishing well for others.
Q: Why does the Torah call them 'his sons and daughters' when they were Yaakov's children?
A: Ibn Ezra explains they are called Lavan's children because they were his grandchildren (through his daughters Leah and Rachel). The Torah uses this language to show Lavan's affection and the family connection, despite their conflicts.